Twin Cranked A-Frames Installed in Lake District Home

Fabrication, Structural steelwork / By

Twin Cranked A-Frames Installed in Lake District Home – Supporting Existing Wall and New Roof Structure

At J Johnstone Engineering, we recently completed the fabrication and installation of two bespoke cranked structural steel A-frames for a residential project in the Lake District. The job combined heritage and modern structural demands — with one frame supporting the existing rear wall of the home, and the other carrying the load of a newly designed roof and window openings.

What made this project stand out? The offset design of one A-frame was required due to the layout of the neighbouring property’s roofline, meaning we had to fabricate a highly tailored solution to work within the constraints of both the site and surrounding buildings.

Structural Support with a Twist

This project involved:

  • A cranked offset A-frame to support the rear of the original house, installed after the removal of a load-bearing wall
  • A second cranked A-frame with ridge beam to support the new extension roof and window layout
  • An offset ridge line to avoid conflict with the adjoining roof of a neighbouring property

The result was a seamless integration of new and existing structures — built to last and installed with precision.

Project Overview:

  • Location: Lake District, Cumbria
  • Type: Residential extension & refurbishment
  • Steel Supplied:
    • Two cranked A-frames
    • Integrated ridge beam
  • Purpose:
    • Frame 1: Support removed rear wall of original house
    • Frame 2: Carry new roof and window spans
  • Reason for Offset: Required to accommodate adjacent roofline of neighbouring house
  • Finish: Red oxide primer
  • Certification: Fabricated and installed to EN1090 Class 2 standard

Engineering Around Real-World Constraints

Not every build is textbook — and this project is a perfect example of adapting steel design to real-world limitations. The neighbouring roof presented a height and pitch conflict, so our team worked closely with the builder to develop a bespoke offset frame that provided the necessary structural support while respecting boundary conditions.

Trusted Steelwork for Builders and Self-Builders Across Cumbria

Whether you’re dealing with a tricky extension, an open-plan conversion, or a complex roofline, we provide:

  • Accurate site measurement and consultation
  • Fully traceable fabrication
  • Professional on-site installation
  • Compliance with UK and CE steel standards

We regularly support:

  • Builders
  • Self-builders
  • Architects
  • Refurbishment contractors

Serving the Lake District and Beyond

We fabricate and install steelwork across:

  • Keswick
  • Penrith
  • Cockermouth
  • Ambleside
  • Windermere
  • Seaton
  • And throughout Cumbria

Need a Bespoke Steel Frame for Your Project?

If your build needs custom steelwork — especially for unusual roof layouts or complex architectural features — get in touch with J Johnstone Engineering.